herbal (1)

10806994475?profile=RESIZE_400xAccording to the current food legislation in Bulgaria, dried herbs are classified under the large group of food supplements and their trade is allowed in pharmacies, drugstores and grocery stores.

Researchers sampled 103 dried herb food supplements on sale in Bulgaria and analyses them using macro- and microscopic tests. 

They found that the majority of samples failed to meet specification and that there was widespread adulteration and foreign body contamination.  17.5% of samples contained species which are prohibited for consumption due to their pyrrolizidine alkaloid content.

This work implies the need for strengthening control of herbs and spices.

Read the full paper.

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